Magnetic-stripe cards
Start with the reader, system and data—not the stripe graphic.
A magnetic stripe is part of a wider workflow. Compatibility, data, track responsibility, encoding scope and testing must be confirmed for the actual project.
System-led requirement
The card only works when the complete relationship is understood.
The visible stripe does not establish that a card will work with an existing reader or programme.
Include the organisation responsible for the reader, data and system behaviour before artwork and production scope are approved.
- Reader
- System
- Data
- Position
- Testing
Build the brief
Provide system documentation or a responsible technical contact
Use current reader and platform information to confirm compatibility, even when a previous card is available as a reference.
Include in the brief
- Card use
- Reader or platform details
- System owner
- Data responsibility
- Stripe requirement
- Artwork status
- Testing owner
Plan the card
Resolve compatibility and responsibility first
Provide the current reader, track, data and encoding requirements so responsibilities and compatibility can be confirmed.
- 01Reader or system
- The existing equipment or platform the card must relate to
- 02Stripe requirement
- Information supplied by the responsible system provider
- 03Data owner
- Who creates, protects and approves any encoded records
- 04Physical position
- The stripe zone and artwork clearance on both sides
- 05Encoding scope
- Whether any data work is required and who is responsible
- 06Testing
- The sample, reader and acceptance owner before production
Confirm the stripe and system relationship
The responsible parties should confirm the reader, data and encoding relationship for the project.
Card quote
Ready to discuss magnetic-stripe cards?
Include the intended use, quantity, artwork status, delivery location and the decisions above. The team will confirm what is practical for magnetic-stripe cards.